Durham University has warned against a ‘knee jerk response’ when examining safety along the River Wear after the death of three students in 14 months.

Professor Graham Towl, pro-vice chancellor and deputy warden at Durham University, said the university would work with partners and its Students’ Union to try and prevent further tragedy after police confirmed the body found in the River Wear on Friday was that of missing second year student Euan Coulthard.

Police said the 19-year-old’s death was not suspicious, he was reported missing on January 15 after failing to return from a night out with friends.

Prof Towl said he shared concerns raised by Superintendent Andy Huddleston regarding drinking and late night bars in Durham.

Police Superintendent Andy Huddleston of Durham Constabulary next to the river Wear in Durham where a body was found

He said: “We want even measured responses, not knee jerk responses.

“We are going to leave no stone unturned in terms of addressing these issues.

“My message to students is one of personal safety, about looking out for each other and looking out for themselves.

“I share their [Durham police] concerns and certainly we are determined to do all that we can in ensuring that we lower the chances of this happening again.”

Posters of missing Durham University student Euan Coulthard are put up in shops in Durham city centre